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Ford to develop new models keeping in mind the Indian Market

The Indian automobile market is among the emerging auto sectors across the world and has attracted several leading car makers. Ford Motor Company, the American multinational car manufacturer, is now developing new global automobiles keeping India in mind to gain cost advantages in other similar markets like that of Brazil and Europe. Under its new strategy, Ford is adopting an unifying approach to its overall operations. According to Graham Pearson, Vehicle Line Director (Small Cars), Ford Asia-Pacific, “We are already working on projects to develop vehicles with India as a reference point market and to take them to other similar markets.”

Ford to develop new models keeping in mind the Indian Market

Pearson said that Indian market happens to be a challenging one given the value conscious nature of the Indian customers. This will help in gaining cost advantages by developing a world class vehicle in India, if they decide to sell the vehicle in other countries. This strategy is similar to the one followed by Ford with the Escort model, which was exhibited as a concept at the Shanghai Auto Show, China. However, Pearson denied to give an estimated time of arrival for the vehicle developed with India as a reference point. According to Pearson, Ford is already working 6-7 years in advance and the new vehicle developed in India will head towards Brazil and some parts of Europe as and when it is launched with necessary adjustments.

Ford is currently gearing up to launch its much awaited compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), EcoSport in the country. President and Managing Director (MD), Ford India Private Limited, Joginder Singh is expecting the upcoming model to generate significant volume for the company and pose a strict competition to the contenders in this segment like Renault Duster. Singh said, “We will also be exporting it to new countries like Australia, New Zealand and Taiwan.” He further added that the car maker has invested around $ 142 million at its Chennai plant to boost the production of the EcoSport. It will be interesting to watch how Ford fairs in the Indian auto market with the EcoSport and planned new global vehicle.

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